French platform for SA music

16 Jan 2006

The South African music industry begins 2006 with a substantially increased presence at the world's biggest music market: Midem. As in 2005, this year sees the Department of Arts and Culture (DAC) provide funding for the Pavilion, which will have a visible South African identity and showcase the artists, songwriters and services of 36 of independent companies, including Gallo Music, Bula Music, Electromode, Ghetto Ruff, Next Music, and more.

Last year saw DAC elevating the profile of the domestic music industry internationally by hosting the first-ever South African Pavilion at Midem, together with Moshito Conference and Exhibition.

"We are buoyed by the response to the South African Pavilion that was shown last year and are thrilled that so many of our artists and songwriters, through their record companies and publishers, will be represented at the 2006 event," says Director General in the DAC Professor Itumeleng Mosala.

Mosala will be part of a delegation from the DAC at this year's Midem, which takes place in the French city of Cannes from January 22 - 26.

"We know that we have great creative talent in South Africa but the real challenge facing the music industry is penetrating international markets to create the broadest possible economic base to sustain that very creativity."

The DAC is also financially assisting several newcomers to Midem, among them Johannesburg's Outrageous Records and Cape Town's Mama Dance Records, as well as providing some financial support for those companies represented at the 2005 event. First timers at Midem will be actively mentored by individuals from companies who have more experience in negotiating their way through the music market.

Nick Motsatse, Chairperson of Moshito, says: "The fact that we are now able to take a second national stand at Midem is indicative of the commitment given by the DAC, along with partners like Moshito, as well as the invaluable support of the French Embassy.

"There is no doubt that last year's Pavilion enabled independent, smaller companies in the music industry to make the contacts vital to earning artists and songwriters deals internationally and begin building the foundations of ongoing relationships with international partners.

"It is in this that Midem is so important - making those connections between South Africans and global players and giving individuals working in the industry an excellent view of the international music industry. We are positive that within a short space of time we will see the results of this interaction through increasing international deals for performers and songwriters.

"South Africa may not be a big territory in the international music business but it is very interesting and important," comments Motsatse. "Through the South African Pavilion we are sure that we will become an increasing global force in the years to come."